As I hope you know, because of the design of the
anti-theft ignition system on the Prius, losing both of your
black master keys can create a quite a problem and requires the
replacement of a computer (which generally has to be ordered)
and the expense of installation and reprogramming. Recently, we
lost one of our keys, leaving us with only one, and decided to
order a couple more just to insure against any future expensive
mistakes. All you have to do is give the key number to the
dealer and they can send you keys already cut to fit the locks
or just order blanks and any key shop can cut them for you...
except they still won't start the car :). The computer has
to be programmed for them first. This is something you
can do yourself and really only takes a little more than a
minute.
STEPS:
1. Begin by sitting in the driver
seat with all the doors shut.
2. Insert your working master
(black) key in the
ignition.
3. Very
Quickly, turn the key from "LOCK"
to "ON" 5 times. (You will end with the key in the
"LOCK" position)
4. Immediately,
open and close the driver door 6
times very quickly.
(End with the door closed)
5. Immediately,
remove your working Master Key
and insert your new Master Key
6. Turn the key to the
"ON" position and leave it
there while you wait for 1 minute.
7. After the minute, if you want to
program another
key, just remove the first one and insert the
next one, turning it to "ON" and leaving it in
position for 1 minute.
8. When you are through
programming keys, just
take the last one out, open and then close the
driver door to lock in the programming, and your done :)
Programming
Sub Keys (Grey) is done the same way except you turn
the master key 4 times before you open and close the door 5 times. Then insert the sub key,
turn to the "ON" position, and wait your minute. Finish by
removing the key and opening and closing the door 1 time as
before.
You
can erase all the keys and start over by turning a
working master key 6 times and then opening and closing the door 7 times. Then
remove the key and reprogram again.
Remember
: You only have a few seconds to perform
each maneuver so don't waste time. You will know when you have
done it right when you insert the blank key and the
security light on the radio stops blinking. If it
does not work, try completing the sequence faster, time
yourself. And don't worry, if it doesn't work the first
time, just do it again :)
**It
is our understanding, according to the book, you can have 2
master keys and 1 sub key, however, we are aware of one
gentleman who was able to program 4 masters and 2 subs. We currently
have 3 masters and 1 sub.**